BILL REQ. #:  S-1759.1 

Read first time 02/15/2007.   Referred to Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education.

     AN ACT Relating to requiring a recess period for elementary school students; adding a new section to chapter 28A.320 RCW; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature finds that students at the elementary level must have the opportunity to participate in daily recess. The legislature also finds that recess provides children with unstructured time to engage in physical activity that helps to develop healthy minds and bodies. As childhood obesity rates rise, it is important to ensure that children have the time for physical activity. Insufficient physical activity and excessive calories consumed is well-known as a critical factor for this alarming increase in overweight and obese children. As Washington state strives to be the healthiest state in the nation, we must continue to encourage our children to engage in physical activity so they can develop a healthy mind and body.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 28A.320 RCW to read as follows:
     Each school district shall provide a daily recess period for elementary school students.